How to reduce stress—and the flu

With flu season in full swing, Health Net, Inc. is working to increase awareness of not only standard flu-fighting basics such as habitual hand washing, but also of the strong connection between stress levels and susceptibility to respiratory infections, including flu.

“When we talk about seasonal flu, the focus most often is on vaccinations and good hygiene—both of which are important—but there’s a tendency to overlook the strong connection between mental health and physical health,” explains Jonathan Scheff, chief medical officer, Health Net, Inc. “Several studies have presented powerful evidence supporting the mind-body connection and that connection certainly applies to the impact of stress on our immune system.”